Rip Curl Girls Go Surfing Day: Empowering Indonesian Women Through Surfing in Lombok
On May 2-3, 2025, Rip Curl hosted the Rip Curl Girls Go Surfing Day in Lombok, supported by Sikara Lombok Hotel.
“Rip Curl Girls Go Surfing Day is more than just an event; it’s a platform to empower women of all backgrounds to embrace surfing, raise awareness about ocean safety, and strengthen community bonds. Together, we share a mission to make surfing accessible, safe, and inclusive while creating a positive impact through community engagement," said Harrison Mann, Head of Product and Marketing of Rip Curl Indonesia.
Why Lombok?
Lombok was chosen for its pristine beaches, vibrant surf culture, and growing community of local female surfers. This location offers an opportunity to connect with women who are breaking societal norms and embracing water sports. By hosting the event in Lombok, Rip Curl aims to inspire more women to take up surfing and overcome barriers to participation in the sport.
About the Initiative
The Rip Curl Girls Go Surfing Day program has been a cornerstone of Rip Curl’s women’s initiatives for over twenty years, with successful executions in Bali and other regions of Indonesia. This year event focuses on:
- Promoting Surf Awareness: Educating women from all backgrounds about surfing and ocean safety.
- Fundraising for OceanFolx: Supporting the non-profit organization for women in Lombok
- Raising Ocean Safety Awareness: Highlighting essential practices to ensure confidence and safety in the water.
- Driving Community Engagement: Building partnerships with like-minded organizations such as OceanFolx, Tribe Skate Park, Lombok Surfer Girls, Women10k, Longboard Girls Crew Indonesia, and Sana Studio.
Challenges Local Girls Face in Surfing
In Indonesia, cultural stigmas often discourage women from engaging in surfing. Traditional beliefs suggest that women should stay at home, care for their families, and cover their skin. There’s also a lingering concern about getting darker skin from sun exposure. Despite these societal pressures, the event highlighted how initiatives like Rip Curl Girls Go Surfing Day would help break these barriers.
Michelle, a participant and former OceanFolx student, shared her story: “It has been so hard to find local girls in the water. Two years ago, I was a student of OceanFolx surf lessons, and this year, I am capable of being the instructor! I am so happy!”
Community Impact Through Fundraising
On May 3rd, Rip Curl hosted a Movie Night and Raffle Fundraiser for OceanFolx, supported by Tribe Skate Park Lombok. The event raised Rp 44,850,000, which will be used to help OceanFolx teach women in Lombok how to swim, surf, and feel safe and comfortable in the water.
“This is my first time surfing with a group of girls only in the water. I feel so confident and comfortable! They all cheer and support each other. I am so proud to be part of this event and hope more Indonesian women out there feel encouraged to enjoy the water!” said Ayu Utami, a participant from Jakarta.
Through collaboration with communities, sponsors, and organizations, Rip Curl Girls Go Surfing Day in Lombok continues to empower women to overcome challenges and embrace the joy and freedom of surfing.
